Lunar New Year 2025 in San Francisco

Lunar New Year in San Francisco is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration, deeply rooted in the city’s history and traditions. Known for its elaborate events and diverse activities, the festivities offer something for everyone, from colorful parades to traditional performances and culinary delights.

Chinese New Year Festival & Parade (January 25–March 2, 2025)

The Lunar New Year 2025 celebrations in San Francisco feature a diverse lineup of events, beginning with the Flower Market Fair on January 25-26. The festivities continue with the Chinese New Year’s Day Opening Ceremony on January 29 and the Basketball Jamboree on February 8.

February 14 will showcase the Miss Chinatown USA Pageant & Coronation Ball, leading up to the centerpiece Chinese New Year Parade on February 15. The weekend will also host the Community Street Fair on February 15-16, and the celebrations will conclude with the Chinatown YMCA Run on March 2.

Parade (February 15, 2025)

The San Francisco Chinese New Year Parade, dating back to 1860, is the highlight of the festivities. This grand event features school marching bands, military processions, stilt walkers, acrobats, lion dancers, decorated floats, and Miss Chinatown USA. The parade's spectacular finale is the enormous Golden Dragon, carried by a group of 100 men and women and accompanied by dazzling firecrackers. Traditionally held on a Saturday, the parade begins at 5:15 pm from the intersection of 2nd and Market Streets, winding its way through Chinatown to Jackson and Kearny Streets.

Chinatown YMCA Run (March 2, 2025)

Another cherished tradition celebrating Chinese New Year is the annual 5K/10K run or walk. The live, in-person event takes place on Sunday, March 2, at 8 am, with a virtual option available throughout the entire month. The Basic Package for both 5K and 10K in-person events is priced at $55, with the premium package costing $75.

Treasure Hunt (February 15, 2025)

While the Chinese New Year Parade is undeniably grand, many find the Treasure Hunt to be the highlight of the festivities. Held on Saturday, February 15, from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm (with doors opening at 2 pm), this urban adventure game unfolds on the streets of Chinatown and North Beach.

Starting and ending at the Telegraph Hill Neighborhood Center gym (555 Chestnut Street), the hunt involves nearly 1600 participants working in teams to solve riddles and uncover a hidden treasure. Tickets will be available soon. Join the fun, embrace the challenge, and don't forget your comfortable footwear, flashlight, and spirit of adventure!

Lunar New Year Concert & Banquet (February 8, 2025)

If you feel like classical music and don’t mind splashing out, opt for a Chinese New Year celebration with the San Francisco Symphony. Celebrate the 25th anniversary of this beloved event on Saturday, February 8, at Davies Symphony Hall.

The evening kicks off at 4 pm with preconcert festivities and the Ruby Receptions, followed by a concert at 5 pm that showcases a wide range of Asian traditions and vibrant performances. The festivities culminate with a lavish banquet at 6:30 pm in the Zellerbach Rehearsal Hall.

Individual tickets range from $1,000 to $10,000, while a table of ten costs between $10,000 and $100,000. These prices ensure best-in-house seating, live acknowledgments, invitations to the preconcert Ruby Reception, listings in print and digital materials, complimentary parking, and more. Proceeds support the Symphony’s artistic, educational, and community programs, benefiting tens of thousands of people each year.

History

The Chinese New Year celebration in San Francisco began in the mid-1800s, as many Chinese immigrants came to the US seeking work during the Gold Rush. When they decided to stay, they built a large community, forming the iconic Chinatown district that thrives today. They embraced the idea of a large, colorful parade, a concept not originally part of Chinese festivities but adopted from American culture. This blend of traditions created the vibrant celebrations we see today.